Neerja Punia (MTV Roadies 19)

Some Lesser Known Facts About Neerja Punia

• Neerja Punia is an Indian model who appeared on MTV Roadies Karm Ya Kaand’ (Season 20) as a contestant in 2023 and became the first transwoman to participate in the show.

• Neerja works as a print and runway model. In 2023, she participated in the show ‘Slay Model Search Asia.’ It is the first international modelling contest organised by Slay Model Management, which is the world’s first and only transgender-exclusive model agency based in Los Angeles; this institute is founded, owned, and run by Filipino-American director Cecilio Asuncion.

  

• During a personal interview round on MTV Roadies Karm Ya Kaand (Season 19), Neerja Punia shared her journey as a transwoman. She discussed the challenges she faced, particularly the strained relationship with her father, who initially struggled to accept her true identity. Despite having knowledge of legal procedures and court processes, her father chose not to accompany her during the Legal Gender Recognition (LGR) process; however, a significant change occurred in their relationship when Neerja was selected for the personal interview round of MTV Roadies Karm Ya Kaand (Season 19). She added that her father accompanied her to the airport when she left for the auditions, hinting at a potential reconciliation and progress in their relationship.

  

• Neerja has a deep affection for animals. She has a pet dog and two hamsters.

  

• Punia’s fondness for nature extends to her personal space. Her home is embellished with an array of lush green plants.